Steep Ravine Loop to Stinson Beach

Mill Valley, California

The Steep Ravine/Matt Davis/Dipsea Loop, with a stop at Stinson Beach, is considered by many the best hike in the North Bay. Start at Pantoll Station in Mount Tamalpais State Park. Heading downhill, you go through the dappled shade of mixed forest and over grassy slopes soaking in the sunlight. Weaving down the trail past rock outcroppings and trickling creeks with western views of sand and surf, you’re suddenly in downtown Stinson Beach. Dipsea takes you through meadow and marsh to Steep Ravine Trail, the pride of Mount Tamalpais State Park. In the deep-crested canyon, follow rushing Webb Creek under a canopy of tall redwoods. Up farther you are rewarded with a 15-foot waterfall. Beside it is the 10-foot ladder, beloved by locals, that you must clamber up to make your way back to the starting point. Trails Surface: Single-track dirt trail with a short stint walking beside the highway.

The Steep Ravine/Matt Davis/Dipsea Loop, with a stop at Stinson Beach, is considered by many the best hike in the North Bay. Start at Pantoll Station in Mount Tamalpais State Park. Heading downhill, you go through the dappled shade of mixed forest and over grassy slopes soaking in the sunlight. Weaving down the trail past rock outcroppings and trickling creeks with western views of sand and surf, you’re suddenly in downtown Stinson Beach. Dipsea takes you through meadow and marsh to Steep Ravine Trail, the pride of Mount Tamalpais State Park. In the deep-crested canyon, follow rushing Webb Creek under a canopy of tall redwoods. Up farther you are rewarded with a 15-foot waterfall. Beside it is the 10-foot ladder, beloved by locals, that you must clamber up to make your way back to the starting point. Trails Surface: Single-track dirt trail with a short stint walking beside the highway.